MOGADISHU, (HAN) – Former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has strongly condemned the arrest of several traditional elders from his sub-clan in Mogadishu, describing the incident as a dangerous move that could heighten political tensions in the country.
In a statement issued last night, Sheikh Sharif, who also serves as chairman of the Union for Peace and Development Party and is a leading opposition figure, voiced deep concern over the detention.
He stressed that targeting respected clan elders undermines reconciliation efforts and risks igniting clan-based grievances at a critical moment for Somalia.
The former president urged the government to respect the rights of traditional leaders, release those detained without delay, and avoid actions that could deepen divisions. He further appealed to all political stakeholders to prioritize dialogue, peace, and national unity over confrontation.
Sheikh Sharif’s remarks come amid rising political friction in Mogadishu, where relations between the government and opposition remain tense. Elders, who traditionally play a central role in mediation, conflict resolution, and representing community interests, are seen as vital to maintaining social stability. Their detention is being viewed by many as an escalation that could further destabilize fragile clan relations.
Analysts warn that the incident may also impact upcoming political processes, including reconciliation efforts and negotiations between federal and state authorities, at a time when Somalia is struggling to consolidate peace and rebuild state institutions after decades of conflict.
The Somali government has not yet released an official statement on the arrests, leaving the exact reasons unclear. Opposition leaders, however, caution that silencing traditional voices risks deepening mistrust and sparking further unrest in the capital.
